An incredible surprise at a Lincoln Elementary School assembly, Young Mazda gifted Ogden School District’s teacher of the year, Kimberly Pickett, with a free, one-year lease on a new Mazda CX-5 on May 3.
“Any support that teachers can get from outside the community is so welcomed and appreciated. To get cars, that’s crazy,” Pickett said. “To have organizations actually give back is incredible.”
Partnering with the Young Caring for Our Young Foundation, Mazda USA, Goldenwest Credit Union and the Ogden School Foundation, the dealership started the giveaway by inviting the kindergarten teacher on stage. Young Mazda’s general manager Ryan Albert then handed Pickett a swag box, which included multiple items as well as a bag with keys inside.
“There’s nothing forgettable about a vehicle giveaway like this,” Albert said. “We’re incredibly grateful to have educators like Pickett in our schools as well as for opportunities like this to show our appreciation.”
In addition to the lease, Pickett received insurance courtesy of Goldenwest Credit Union and a $500 gas card compliments of Maverik. She said that she plans to use the vehicle for mountain drives and a potential vacation.
Young Mazda began their giveaway tradition last year by awarding Mound Fort Junior High School teacher Levi Andersen with free use of a Mazda CX-9. The Young Automotive Group’s Kia location in Layton has been holding a similar giveaway for Davis School District’s teacher of the year since 2016.
“Having organizations like the Young Automotive Group who value what we do is incredibly impactful,” assistant superintendent Chad Carpenter said. “It’s so important to be able to recognize teachers who go above and beyond.”
The giveaway coincides with the Young Automotive Group’s celebration of 100 years of business. Founded by Seldon “Jack” Olsen in 1924, the company has expanded from a single dealership in Morgan, Utah to an operation with over 30 locations across Utah, Idaho and Montana.
Both Young Caring for Our Young and the Young Automotive Group were recently named as some of Ogden School District’s community partners of the year. This is the second time the Ogden School District has recognized the foundation and company for their support of those in need. Young Caring for Our Young was also a finalist for the Ogden Weber Chamber of Commerce’s Nonprofit of the Year award.
Albert, Carpenter and Young Caring for Our Young’s director Tami Olsen have said they plan to keep the giveaway a tradition.
“We can’t wait to hold this again next year,” Albert said. “There’s a lot that goes into this event, but it’s such a rewarding experience that it makes you want to jump back in and do it again tomorrow.”
